runway review: af vandevorst s/s 09

There was a distinct lack of colour on the runway for af vandevorst's spring/summer 2009 show. This is not to say that it was overly missed, nor that the collection was bland, or relentlessly greyscale. It was just something that you noticed.

But what the collection lacked in bright hues, it made up for in simple, chic style. Crisp white shirts, tailored waistcoats, lingerie-inspired outerwear - An Vandevorst and Filip Arickx did not deviate from what they know they excel at.

Ladylike lace, prim collars and girlish white dresses were offset by tousled locks and red lips that would put Jessica Rabbit to shame. Other gorgeous details included an asymmetrical skirt that managed to be both tutu and tennis skirt, kimono sleeves that provided just the right amount of volume at the elbow, and a forest-green draped wrap top and skirt that provided the perfect foil for the red hues of lips and heels. Grey hoisery featured throughout, in various guises, and was the perfect antidote to the purely feminine styling.

There were a few questionable choices: deep orange looks seemed somewhat unanchored amidst the greys and greens, and the white leggings with floral cut-outs and over-use of floral-printed satin were a bit mid-90s - we all adore Clueless, but sartorially-speaking it is less than spectacular.

These things aside, however, it was another pleasing offering from the Belgian duo.

next season's ultimate recession accessory

pastel headgear at giles. let pacman be your muse.

runway review: zac posen s/s 2009

“It’s about the new rock queen’s first journey to Mars, and the luxury outfits she’d wear”: Zac Posen summarises his spring/summer 2009 simply and economically, albeit cryptically. The intergalactic travels of a rock goddess have been translated into the flirtatious, whimsical dresses which are Posen’s forte, and which have garnered him adoration from young socialites everywhere.

Gone for the most part are the blacks and greys that featured strongly in Posen’s last spring/summer collection, replaced by colours that would not look out of place in the window of your favourite gelateria in Naples. Warm yellows, dusty pinks and ultra-pale greens dominated the runway, the perfect shades for sipping a cooling aperitif in the Mediterranean sun.

The focus often rests, once again, on the waist, with necklines frequently draped open to the waistline. Volume often settles at the hemline, silks and chiffons enhancing a gorgeous sense of movement. Ruffles, draping and tiers abound, pure Southern Belle, though sometimes somewhat unexpectedly, in a mini-bustle, or wrist-anchored train. All this lush femininity is broken up by draped 80s style tanks, mid-waisted minis, and biker-style jackets and waist coats – just so we don’t overdose on the saccharine sweetness – and Posen weaves in the tribal, and the gypsy, with oversized shoulder-grazing earrings, and Perspex and metal embellishments.

All in all, a successful astronomical adventure for Posen.

my two favourite punx

vivieen westwood takes on old-style glamour for s/s 2009

disco punx rocking out in style, sync and substance.

educate your ears:

fri 7-11-08, 9pm - 1pm aest

http://www.abc.net.au/triplej/mixup/

madonna, take note:

workout-inspired rtw does not have to equal lycra nightmare.

let's tone it down a little please. speak to abaete if you need some pointers.

red lips make a comback

we can finally drink red wine without a care in the world!

perfect timing, a.f vandervorst.